On the night before her newest album, Nocturnal, dropped, the Malaysian songbird, Yuna, performed a few of her songs at the art and music space, Sonos Studios, on Monday, October 28th.

This was my third time seeing the lovely Yuna and I must say that I become more impressed with her each time. Fortunately for me, this was a very intimate show and not only was I able to get super close to the stage but I also finally got to meet this talented young woman.

Before her set, there was a short Q and A between her and KCRW DJ, Anthony Valdez. He asked about the authentic and genuine relationship she has with her fans and she replied, “You know, most of the time, I think that my fans understand me better then I understand myself. So I want to give back.” When asked about how different this album is from her first one, she said, “This album is about full measures and being as creative as I could possibly get. I gave 110% on this record!”

Yuna delighted with us with several songs from Nocturnal. Right from the opening notes of her first song, “Falling,” you know you’re listening to something different. Music like this doesn’t come across your radar very often. This album is a crisp and beautiful exploration of sunny pop songs with unique instruments providing a multicultural backdrop. She closed the show with the first single off the album, “Rescue” which is a bubbly pop song that screams ‘radio-hit’. Some pop hits are so over-the-top catchy with no real substance, so they tend to get old quickly. “Rescue” is insanely catchy and avoids becoming stale and begs for repeated plays long after the first listen.

During the show, Yuna’s voice oozed enough cool and color to appease any audience and it was clear that her talent doesn’t come with an ego to match, with Yuna interacting with the audience through smiles and anecdotes about almost every song. She mentioned several times that each song was her favorite track to sing.

Without any real low points or slumps, it shows how professional and captivating Yuna is both as a performer and a person. It is clear that her relocation to LA hasn’t yet corrupted her and I hope this only means that she will be playing around town more often. I certainly will be watching her career blossom.

About the Author

Leah Brungardt joined All Access Music Group in August 2011 and has been enjoying getting to know a new side of the music industry ever since. Having worked to promote radio stations in the past, seeing what makes a successful radio hit has been a thrill. As a lover of all genres of music, working at All Access Music Group is a perfect fit for Leah, and she loves learning about up and coming musicians as well. Most of her friends have come to rely on her for new music.